The UN on Monday condemned the killing of two peacekeepers during an ambush in South Sudan's Jonglei State.
"The Secretary-General (Antonio Guterres) strongly condemns this attack in no uncertain terms," spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters.
He confirmed that the two fallen peacekeepers were Ethiopian nationals. The attack also resulted in injuries to seven others, including three additional UN peacekeepers, two South Sudanese police officers, and two civilian staff members.
Guterres extended his condolences to the families of the fallen peacekeepers, as well as to the people and government of Ethiopia, Dujarric said, adding Guterres wishes a speedy recovery to all those injured.
Dujarric did not specify who was responsible for the attack but said "armed gunmen" attacked the unit while it was conducting a regular patrol to address local insecurity.
Asked about the nature of the incident, Dujarric said available information indicated that the peacekeepers appeared to have been intentionally targeted.
He noted that this incident brings the total number of peacekeepers killed in "malicious acts" to nine since Jan. 1. The UN mission deployed a quick reaction force to secure the area and assist in the emergency response.
Dujarric emphasized that attacks on UN personnel may constitute war crimes under international law.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, head of the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), called for a prompt investigation to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
"Such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable," she said.
